Bill Would Give Unclaimed Casino Winnings To State

(Carson City, NV) — Unclaimed winnings from cashless slot machines could go to the state, under a bill introduced in the Legislature.

It can happen quite often: a gambler sits down at a slot machine, wins a few pennies or even a couple bucks, and then simply forgets or decides not to waste time cashing in for the tiny payout. Whereas the casino benefits from those unclaimed tickets after the typical 60 day period, Assembly Bill 219, introduced by Democratic Las Vegas Assemblyman William Horne, would declare uncashed gaming tickets as unclaimed property, with proceeds going to the general fund of the state.

The measure is opposed by the gaming industry, and Governor Brian Sandoval has not said if he would support it.

According to one estimate, the uncashed tickets could be worth as much as $50 million a year.

No vote was taken on the controversial proposal, but the bill is expected to be heard again in coming months.